When driving a manual transmission car, the right foot controls the accelerator and brake, while the left foot is solely responsible for the clutch. During normal driving, when not shifting gears, the left foot generally rests to the left of the clutch pedal, and the right foot remains on the accelerator. If no acceleration is needed, the right foot should rest steadily on the accelerator, and the brake should be pressed when deceleration is required. Below is more information about manual transmission driving: 1. Proper Use of the Clutch: When pressing the clutch, ensure it is fully depressed to ensure smooth gear shifting, avoiding gear grinding or popping out of gear. Releasing the clutch involves three stages: effective travel, engagement travel, and free travel. The technique involves two fast actions, two slow actions, and a pause. 2. Coordination Between Clutch and Accelerator: Good clutch-accelerator coordination is essential for smooth hill starts and handling traffic jams. Important reminder: Never press the clutch fully while giving gas, as this can easily accelerate clutch wear or burn out the clutch plate. The burnt smell often noticed in manual transmission cars is usually due to this reason. 3. Matching Speed and Gear: Beginners can initially decide gears based on speed. For example, on flat roads: Upshifting: Shift to second gear at 15 km/h; third gear at 25 km/h; fourth gear at 35 km/h; fifth gear at 45 km/h. Downshifting: Shift to fourth gear at 40 km/h; third gear at 30 km/h; second gear at 20 km/h; first gear at 10 km/h (summarized as: upshift at multiples of 5, downshift at multiples of 10). As driving skills improve, there will be no need to look at the speedometer. Instead, gear shifts should be determined by the engine sound and changes in vehicle power, which enhances driving safety.
